.HACK//GU VOL. 3//REDEMPTION (PLAYSTATION 2 PS2)

.hack//GU Vol. 3: Redemption is the third and final game in the .hack//GU trilogy. Players once again control Haseo, a killer player killer in the fictional online role-playing game "The World". The game's story continues where Volume 2 left off. AIDA, a deadly virus, continues to cause problems both online and in the real world. Haseo will have to uncover the truth behind the virus and defeat it in order to save himself and his friends. As with previous games, the story unfolds through a series of cut scenes as well as through emails you will receive and by reading The World's online discussion forums. Since the game is a continuation of previous installments, many locations, dungeons, and characters return along with several new dungeons and characters. If you've completed previous games, data can be transferred when you start this volume, giving you an advantage.

The game uses a combat system similar to previous games. it is real-time and is activated after Haseo comes into contact with an enemy while exploring the world. Up to three members of your party can join a battle; the player still controls Haseo while two additional members are computer-controlled. Simple commands can be given to computer-controlled characters to guide their actions. Again, multiple attacks are available, including a regular attack, a charge attack, and various skills. After performing a series of combos, Rengeki attacks are available which deal more damage. The most powerful are the Awakening mode attacks which require a certain number of points on your morale gauge. New to this game is Avatar Awakening which replaces Divine Awakening from the previous game. Avatar Awakening allows you to use the power of your avatar to perform a Data Drain on your opponents which will be particularly useful in the fight against the virus. Successfully winning battles will earn experience points which will allow Haseo and other characters to level up and become more powerful. Many missions, side quests and dungeons are available with various enemies to fight and to help continue the story.